Last week, I discussed the sad state of our health care system and the ineffectiveness of our current attempt to “fix” chronic diseases. I explained that solely focusing on rigid diet and exercise protocols to achieve optimal performance is missing the mark.
I feel that many well-intended experts are taking the concept of “food as medicine” to an extreme. This is leading to a nation of diet-obsessed and orthorexic individuals. It is also contributing to health anxiety due to many agonizing over making the “right” food selection that won’t harm them.
Furthermore, those who most need nourishing food and access to movement for pleasure are least likely to have access to it, much less the education on basic dietary principles for wellness. Most keto, kale, and “clean foods” are economically not feasible for many low-income households.
As a naturopathic doctor, I believe in the healing aspects of nutrition and movement; however, I do not advocate for strict rules in how someone should eat. Rather, I feel that diets should be individualized to support one’s biochemical individuality. Just as importantly, as with any lifestyle change, these nutritional recommendations should also enhance relationship quality, financial health, and emotional balance.
In my latest post, I conclude my series on healthism. I discuss how striving for “perfect” health is leading to more “healthy people” with anxiety. I also offer some additional “food for thought” on how to have a more balanced viewpoint on food and wellness.
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This material is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prescribe for any illness. You should check with your doctor regarding implementing any new strategies into your wellness regime. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. (Affiliation link.)
Disclaimer: This information is applicable ONLY for therapeutic quality essential oils. This information DOES NOT apply to essential oils that have not been tested for purity and standardized constituents. There is no quality control in the United States, and oils labeled as “100% pure” need only to contain 5% of the actual oil. The rest of the bottle can be filled with fillers and sometimes toxic ingredients that can irritate the skin. The studies are not based solely on a specific brand of an essential oil, unless stated. Please read the full study for more information.
